Obama’s Israeli Anorexia

Sometimes the luxury of proving you are right is not worth the cost.

I have the unfortunate distinction of being a father of a chronic anorexic. Our daughter is a wonderful, sweet, intelligent girl who has an illness that causes her to believe that she needs to lose weight; and that when she loses enough weight, she will then be both beautiful and happy. This is of course an oversimplification of complex psychological and neurological issues.

The reality is that as she loses weight, the illness will then tell her that whatever weight she is currently at is too high; that she is fat and needs to lose more to be beautiful and happy. If left unchecked she would continue starving herself until she dies.

One of the most frustrating things about the illness is that we know, with no doubt, that our daughter will never be happy or healthy while in the clutches of the illness. It is a fact, proven medically consistently over the years.

Anorexia is the mental illness with the highest mortality rate.

By the illness’s nature, as long as she is sick, she will not believe us; no matter how many times she is told, or how much data, proof and information she is given. All she sees us as are cruel people who want her to be miserable and will not let her achieve her freedom and happiness.

Like many people, I like to be right. And although maybe a personality flaw, I enjoy getting others to come to the realization that they were mistaken.

In the case of my daughter, getting her to understand that it is her illness telling her lies and that she will never be satisfied staying with it is not just important, it is a matter of life and death

Unfortunately, with this illness, there is only one scenario other than controlling or curing her disease that will let me prove I am right. The only way to prove to someone who believes something with all their might that they are wrong is to let them take it to its conclusion, play it out, and have them realize, at the end of the exercise, that they were incorrect.

This is a great way to show someone that they have faulty logic in a math problem, or a standard way to teach a basic lesson to a young child learning things by trial and error.

I often wondered what would happen if we ever let our daughter free fall in her illness; if we allowed her weight and her physical and mental well being to spiral out of control to their horrific conclusion. When she is on her deathbed, will she then realize that she was wrong and that the illness was there to kill her and not to help her?

Of course, at that point, is their any benefit or pleasure in proving that we are right, at the cost of our daughter’s life? No.

I hate the fact that Israel’s appearance has been manipulated to that of the occupier, of the oppressor, the warmonger. None of that is true. Israel was created to be the homeland and safe haven for Jews in a world that has consistently and historically tried to destroy us.

I am not happy with my knowledge, that the ultimate goal of our enemies is the destruction of Israel, the Jewish people, and afterward Western Society. But unfortunately it is true, even if it’s not politically correct to say in today’s world.

I am not blind to the fact that not all Arabs are fundamentalists bent on our destruction.

And I do not believe that everyone is trying to destroy the Jews. I understand that there are many people, including those who at some point may be Arab decision makers who are interested in a real fair peace, with co-existence. I even realize that based on the facts on the ground, if there was a real partner some changes should be made. I think many of the people who are pushing on Israel to take “Bold steps and risks” are only doing what they may think is a fair solution. Unfortunately I don’t believe that the people currently representing the Palestinians are in any of those groups.

I would love to have the world applaud Israel’s bold steps for peace. Ignoring that the bold steps already taken at Oslo, in Lebanon, and Gaza did not get accolades, only further criticism on Israel and two wars, with the reality of two more coming soon.

What a pleasure to be the good guys!

How long after a pullout to ’67 borders will the Arabs, and soon after the world, insist on stopping the occupation from other “territories” like Jaffa and Haifa? And how soon will we be told that there can not be peace until the Palestinian country can defend itself with an army and defensive weapons? Of course, transporting weapons freely between Gaza and “mainland” Palestine is a basic right.

I wonder, in the not so far off doomsday scenario, after Israel no longer exists; or maybe after Europe is Judenrein, will Obama, Blair and other lovers of peace realize that the goal was never about peace? Or maybe after several more attacks on the US and the West will it become clear.

The satisfaction of getting Obama to admit from deep in his protective bunker that he was mistaken is insignificant beyond belief compared to the cost.

Of course, it is irreversible.

Just as an anorexic untreated will realize they are the victim of an illness that is killing them, only after it is too late. So too, the well meaning bodies forcing Israel to essentially commit suicide will only be able to see the error of their plan after irreparable damage will be caused to Israel, and the rest of the civilized world.

Until my daughter gets better, we are stuck being the cruel people who will not let her be “happy” as we do all we can to stop her from causing mortal damage.

Until there is a time when there is a real partner in peace and co-existence, Israel will have to suffer as the cruel, inflexible, unreasonable, uncompromising nation we are being portrayed as.

We do not have the luxury of proving we are right. But at least maybe we can survive long enough until there is a real cure.

Let us know what you think in the comment section below.

The Author, a proud American and proud Israeli, lives with his wife and 4 children in a city between Jerusalem and Tel Aviv. He received permission from his daughter to circulate this on the condition that their names not be used.

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Visitor Comments: 95

(84)
yahudah,
June 11, 2011 6:12 PM

I believe what youre saying is true.

In reading your article I find it to be very much true..The recent trends on dividing the holy land is not just a crime of hate but a crime against the very G-d whom through the promise to Avram said never to sell,or give away any part of the land for the land I have given you is an eternal covenant between you and I....I personally want Israel to also be my Homeland....May Hashem bless you and yours...Yahudah..

(83)
Bernard Yablin(MD),
May 31, 2011 8:07 PM

Eating Disorders

Start treatment early in the course of the illness and there will be a better response.Check out Rambam Hospital in Haifa or Hadassah Hospital in Yerushalyim.

(82)
Joop,
May 31, 2011 7:29 AM

You got the reflections above i share. I'll put it on my FB wall. Be blessed and wish you all the best.

(81)
Anonymous,
May 30, 2011 12:58 AM

Great article

Great article!!!! Very well written. May God help you with your family and country situation

(80)
LionelE,
May 29, 2011 8:46 AM

Whose country is it anyway....It's called The Promised Land for a reason.

This diatribe discussing the future of a tiny but vitally important country, The Homeland for the Jewish People shouldn't even have to be in the public domain. Biblically and by Devine Word mere mortal should butt out and leave the true and indisputable indigenous inhabitants of Israel to live in peace and contribute to the world and future Jewish generations ad infinitum. G_D Bless Israel and may the 'others " soon come to their senses.

(79)
Anonymous,
May 27, 2011 1:56 PM

recovery

In the merit of your continued love and support, may your daughter find her way to recovery from her cruel disease. Let us hope the world recovers from its hatred of the Jews as well.

(78)
mk,
May 26, 2011 9:41 PM

Very clever,pertinant mashal

(77)
Mary Anne,
May 26, 2011 5:54 PM

agree

I agree with your analogy. I am a conservative, who does not want to end all the programs Ms. Kurtin suggested. I dislike when people use broad brushstrokes to paint people, but for another day.... I do not think the battle will ever go away, because it is spiritual at the core. There are those who will always want what was promised to Israel and to her people. I am a Christian who supports Israel in every way. To my dying breath I could not renounce Israel, because of what my creator has said of them. The only thing that comforts me is that He sees everything, and He is capable, even when we are not, and especially when we call upon Him to deliver us. This is something I have been doing more and more as the world shifts in it's axis, so to speak. I did not believe that Obama would support Israel, and now it has shown itself. I prayed I would be wrong on this very important issue, but he constantly seeks to legitimitize the so-called rights of Palestinians. May the Lord deliver us in a mighty way. I will be praying the same for your daughter, whom you obviously adore, that she would be delivered from this crippling illness.

(76)
Diane Byers RN NREMT,
May 26, 2011 3:15 PM

In spite of "world opinion" Israel is NOT alone

Anorexia is a cruel, deceitful "devourer". It convinces the "host" that perfection can come about, only by self destruction but not with such clarity. The author's analogy is moving and succinct. I have pondered the near "supernatural hatred" of Israel and the Jewish People. It mystifies me with its intensity and historical duration. I see end time prophercies being fulfilled,in the daily newspaper. I see blantant falsehoods unquestionably accepted by "intellectuals". I see the world calling "overs" for yet another chance to irradicate the Jews, now returned to their ancestral homeland. Is it 'REALLY THEIR ancestral homeland? I looked to Arabs themselves for answers:
1937-ArabLeader AuniBey Hadi to PEEL Commission"No such country as Palestine. Term created by Zionists and alien to us.
1946-Princeton Arab Prof Hitti told anglo-AmericanComm. "It's common knowledge, no such thing as Palestine in history!"
March 1977 Zahir Mussein, Executive Director of PLO to Dutch Newspaper : "Palestinians people don't exist. Creating a state of palestine only a means for continuing our struggle agianst the State of Israel."
I didn't look to Israel/Jews to provide PROOF of their right to the land. I sought the words of their sworn enemies and found the above quotes and a great deal more. Even the dead Yasser Arafat, when questioned on this topic replied "Yes, I am an Egyptian. I call myself "palestinian" to further my cause. If I am willing to die for what I believe, why wouldn't I LIE????
Naysayers, contact arabs, not me, to investigate these quotes.
There are many "little people" that are of no wordly consequence who KNOW, BELIEVE AND PRAY for Israel. G-d put a fire in their belly for Israel. Why? Ask HIM. What I do know is that I returned to school and graduated as an RN, in the event Israel may need my help someday. I'm old, not in the best of health but have that "fire". As each day passes, it is stoked by the words and actions of a ignorant world. I'm waiting.

(75)
Beverly Kurtin,
May 26, 2011 1:51 AM

There is a method to Obama's apparent madness

President Obama said some things that rightfully upset a lot of people. He and Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu had a meeting the day after Obama's speech. None of us know exactly what was said behind closed doors, but Obama knows that they Israelis are not about to go back to the pre-1967 borders, nor does he expect them to do that. Keep in mind that the Arabs who call themselves "Palestinians" were going to go to the United Nations and beg that organization to recognize them as a new country. Obama's remarks totally short circuited their intentions.
Keep in mind that the GOP is not particularly pro-Israel, indeed, some of their leaders are anti-Zionists if not out and out Jew haters. There is NOTHING to be gained by voting for any RepubliCANT.
President Obama is not a naive man, give him credit for knowing what he is doing and it is NOT trying to get Israel to commit suicide.
The GOP has done about all they could do to attempt his administration to fail by cutting him off at the knees at every turn. Yet, Mr, Obama has done more than any other president since FDR...and he did that in less than two years; FDR had how many terms?
Yes, I am a progressive liberal because I believe that Torah teaches us to love our neighbors as ourselves and to pursue justice. That is the opposite of what the far right conservatives believe. If they had their way, ALL entitlement programs would be shelved. That means that despite the fact that we have all paid into FICA, they would do away with Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, etc. Food stamps would be a thing of the past. FACT: The majority of food stamps go to white people.
Conservatives do not believe in facts, they make up stories and try to "sell" them as being good for the country when, in fact, they do everything they can do to prevent Democrats from succeeding. Don't be fooled; the GOP does not represent people, they represent their leadership ONLY.

Bob,
May 26, 2011 8:57 PM

Berverly,

I have no idea why you're ranting here about food stamps. But Obama, if not naive, is blinded by his Hyde Park idealism to the degree and force of evil in the world. And, no, he did not "short circuit" Palestinians' intentions in the UN, but merely set himself up to say "oh, well, I tried" when the Plishtim proceed with an agenda to which Obama is actually instilling with "Hope" throught his rhetoric and disposition toward Israel and Likkud. About that, he is not naive.

(74)
Annette Fitzgerald,
May 25, 2011 10:10 PM

camelion

In my view there is a good possibility that the USA know exactly the stand it have recently taken and is very satisfied with what is happening. The true solution to all this is prayer. Many of us are busy in that regard. Annette Fitzgerald (Christian)

(73)
Anonymous,
May 25, 2011 1:15 PM

Don't let our enemies frame the debate.

We have let our enemies frame the debate, so that the views are seen through the filter of accepted terms. We redefine the terms and parameters of this debate. This "two-state solution" is nonsense. The people who are calling themselves Palestinian have been in Israel for 150 years at most. Even if that were not so, they have forfeited any claims by their murderous and unjust behavior. Israel gave them homes, land, work, good schools, hospitals, freedom of religion, gay rights, women's rights, democracy, and they repay Israel by trying to destroy her. Israel should not ever give land for peace. Let our enemies give land for peace. Let them be asked to compromise. There are millions of acres of land now in the Muslim world. Let that land be given to the "Palestinians" for their state, and it should not be anywhere on or near Israel. It is insanity to even think of installing a hostile nation in the middle of Israel.
There are countries that are hostile to America. Should America give the Louisiana Purchase back to France, Alaska back to Russia, California and Texas to Mexico, Florida to Spain, or even Cuba, Maine to Canada in case Canada gets annoyed with us? See how strong America will be when it so much smaller? Of course that is wrong to do to America. It is also wrong to do to Israel, too.
Remember the Jews who were kicked out the Middle East and North Africa? Jews who had lived peacefully in those lands for at least 2,500 years, before Islam even existed, and did only good - at least 800,000 Jews were displaced with nothing but the clothes on their back, those who were lucky not to be killed. They were resettled in Israel . The Muslims were deliberately kept from resettling to make Israel look bad. Now it is time that their Muslim friends to step up and give THEIR land away. .

(72)
Richard Wald,
May 25, 2011 4:32 AM

Obama's speech is not all bad.

President Obama, in his Mideast speech said something that no President has ever said which is that any palestinian state must be demilitarized. The statement that a solution for peace must be going back to the 1967 borders is what U. S. policy has always been based on. It would be a ludicrous thing, and will never happen, but it is nothing new

(71)
steve,
May 24, 2011 9:54 PM

broken promises

If the palistineans would keep their promise, that they made at the Oslo accords, to quit using evil anti-jewish propaganda in their children's text books; maybe there would be more hope and a future for them.

(70)
Anonymous,
May 24, 2011 4:16 PM

American Jews and Obama

American Jews will not stop voting for and financially supporting democratic candidates. I suggest that, in response to Obama's latest, American Jews contribute the exact same dollar amount that they did in 1967.
Excellent article.

(69)
Anonymous,
May 24, 2011 2:04 PM

Jewish anorexia

The only thing worse than President Obama's "anorexic syndrom" towards Israel is American Jewry's "anorexic syndrome" towards President Obama.... Please, American Jewry, don't help to re-elect Obama. One day you may need to come join us in Israel; make sure you and your children have an Israel to go to.

(68)
Cynthia,
May 24, 2011 9:46 AM

@ Anonymous,

I do agree with you, 100%- land for peace is absolutely out of the question for Israel.

(67)
buzzsawmonkey,
May 24, 2011 12:51 AM

If there are any "moderate Arabs" who wish to live in peace with Israel, they are few, far between, and either powerless or terrified into silence. There are Arab members of the Israeli Knesset who openly stand with their "Palestinian" brethern for the destruction of Israel.
Israel has absolutely no "peace partners" in the Arab world at the present time. Mubarak was a "peace partner" because of billions of dollars of American bribery---and Obama still helped grease the skids under him. Without bribery into quiescence, there are no "peace partners" in the Arab world. Israel should not look for them. If Israel is feared, if Israel is resolute, the Arabs may change their minds at least to the extent of being willing to temporarily abandon their plans for genocide---but that genocide is hardwired into their belief system, both from the violent evangelism of the Koran, and because of the deep hold that Nazi ideology has in the Arab world.
As far as Obama is concerned, he is allied with the radical Muslims. He accepted Hamas phone-bank assistance during his 2008 campaign; his two closest friends when he was in Chicago were Bill Ayers (unrepentant terrorist bomber) and Rashid Khalidi (PLO publicist), both of whom have been involved in the "Gaza flotilla" movement. Obama spent 20 years in the church of Jeremiah Wright, who publishes Hamas material in his church newsletter. Anything that Obama thinks he knows about Israel has come to him through the filter of radical leftism and radical Islam, both of which are hostile to Israel's very existence.
Obama called, not merely for Israel to retreat to the '67 prewar lines (which inevitably also includes re-dividing Jerusalem, thus ratifying the 19 years of illegal Jordanian occupation); he also called for a "contiguous Palestinian state." That means he wants to bisect Israel for the benefit of the genocidal Arabs.

(66)
ruth,
May 23, 2011 10:15 PM

obama is bring judgement upon america

Obama---who do you think you are to tell another country what they can or cannot do? Will you let them tell YOU what to do? I surgest you read G-d's Word about going against Israel, before you do. If you were ever to MAKE Israel move her borders back, to where they will be defenseless, guess what G-d will make happen to us!!! He will cause OUR borders to be defenseless. And WE will be attacked. You can depend on it.!! READ and THINK before you act. Think about this country instead of the ones who are pulling your "string">

(65)
Chana,
May 23, 2011 9:38 PM

B"H Thank you.

B"H Thank you for your article.

(64)
s. wallace,
May 23, 2011 9:35 PM

About Obama

I believe President Obama inherited most problems from previous administrations - and now I am outraged at his attitude toward Israel and other recent ideas of his. It's inconceivable that he thinks he represents us.

(63)
Anonymous,
May 23, 2011 8:57 PM

Pres. Obama is wrong in his proposal and grossly ignorant of the subject and its implications. Never expected anything else from the man.
Let's all of us Jews all over the world suggest as a counterproposal to return to the borders of Israel as established very clearly in the Torah.
Do not give an inch of Israel to anyone! Land for peace has never worked and will never work!

(62)
chaya Newman,
May 23, 2011 7:41 PM

excellent analogy...if only obama was wise enough to und

You are "too correct" for comfort. Re your daughter's anorexia, there is an excellent rehab and trearment center in the U.S. the Renfrew center with whom I am personally aquainted through my clients. You might want to explore it. You may contact me for follow-up information.

(61)
Sara,
May 23, 2011 2:34 PM

Anorexia and Israel

Anorexia is an unfortunate disease although it cannot be compared to this situation. It is correct that some Arabs want to see the fall of Israel and America but Israel needs to stop pushing the limits. How far into Arab land will Israel stop. It seens both sides are trying to push each other out. Israel has the biggest guns and they are looking like the bullies.

Dvirah,
May 23, 2011 7:08 PM

Big Guns

Have a look at the historical facts - you will see that at no time did Isarel have bigger guns then the Arabs; often quite the opposite. Right now the Palestinians have modern machine guns and rockets, bomb factories, etc. - they are not helpless.

(60)
Marlene Wein,
May 23, 2011 2:34 PM

You are probably right!

How can we reach the more moderate Arabs who accept the right of Israel to exist?

(59)
Andy,
May 23, 2011 2:13 PM

Obama knows what he is doing and seems to speak for many Jews as well

"I am not happy with my knowledge, that the ultimate goal of our enemies is the destruction of Israel, the Jewish people, and afterward Western Society. But unfortunately it is true, even if it’s not politically correct to say in today’s world."
Sadly, I think the reality in many of the Western democracies is that it is politically correct to say that the destruction of Israel as a Jewish State would not be a tragedy, and even that it would be a welcome development is PC on many "enlightened campus'
I think it's a given that the vast majority of the Islamic world would welcome the destruction of Israel as a Jewish State .Many if not most Palestinians and their supporters are willing to endure some level of sacrifice and hardship to achieve that end. It does not seem to me that the same level of commitment is there regarding the destruction of the Jewish people as a whole, or to destroy Western society. For certain there are extremists willing to go all out but I'm speaking of the majority. That seems to me to be the reason why many citizens and even a sizable portion of the Jews support Obama on this issue despite the danger it will present to Israel. Obama is a skilled politician.If he felt that he would be endangering his reelection bid he would not have made his recent speech re Israel's return to 1967 borders with agreed upon swaps. Many Jews live in swing states and vote in large numbers some contribute to his and other Democratic candidates campaigns. The president and his advisers did not plan this speech without thinking of the possible consequences. Many things can change between now and then but when the elections are held in 2012 I would be surprised if Obama does not receive a majority of the Jewish vote.

(58)
Rita,
May 23, 2011 2:11 PM

Anorexia

I feel for you and your daughter, but you are so right. Only today Hamas' Zahar stated why settle for '67 borders, why not '48 borders. We should reply, what about going back to the borders under King Solomon. It is so clear they do not want peace. Israel needs to stay strong, and not waiver.

(57)
David Schwep,
May 23, 2011 12:57 PM

Mr. President, You are not speaking for America

Bless your Daughter.
Mr President,
In your speech three days ago you stated:
"we believe that the borders of Israel/Palestine should be based upon the 1967 line - " In these words you have outright lied to the American people and to the people of the world when you are aware of the fact that over 70% of the American people stand strongly with Israel and support her as a very close ally. How dare you assume to speak for us who stand with Israel. Surrounded by enemies, Israel was attacked by a league of confederated Arab nations from all sides during that Six-day War yet she miraculously won the war. These Arab muslim nations remain on a mission to destroy Israel. Their goal to 'drive the Jews into the sea' has never been renounced! And we are to give into the 'Arab Demands' when Israel only suffers more each time she relinquishes land to their demands? Preposterous! You know the Gaza strip has become a launching pad for daily rocket attacks upon Israel - - and 'You, Barack Obama', want Israel to give more land to them - land which Israel won on the Defensive! Yes, it is You,' Barak Obama' because this is Your wish and NOT the American people ! You have betrayed the people of the United States of America.
It is "we the people" and you have postulated contrary-wise. How Dare you! Mr. Obama, it is past time for you to resign and step down from the position you hold as President of the United States.
David Schwep

PATRICIA JONES,
May 24, 2011 5:55 AM

obamas israel anorexia

I applaud you David for your forthright and meaningful comments on this news post. Israel may be the mouse of the middle east - but wait till she roars.

(56)
Connie Tolchard,
May 23, 2011 12:16 PM

I stand with Israel

The Jews are God's covenant people and it will always be their land no matter what men try to do to it. Stand firm one day this fighting will be over and you will live in peace.

(55)
ruth housman,
May 23, 2011 12:13 PM

the cost

I want to say that you are so right and that proving one is right is often not worth the cost. I think this statement applies to much of life and how it is lived.
It seems everything comes with a price tag. Certainly with anorexia, a disease that takes on a life of its own, it feels hopeless to force a person, or try to, to realize what they are doing is self and often, other destructive. They just can't seem to perceive the truth of this, because, for reasons that have to do with the human psyche, they are blinded to the truth, and just cannot see themselves as others do.
The Middle East Conflict seems to be caught in an endless crossfire. As a Jew, and having seen the amazing reclamation of land and lives here, for the Jews, I cannot but feel it's our Homeland, and this goes deep. I do, however, comprehend the origins of a problem, in that others too, had claims to those lemon trees and orange groves, and they too, have a Biblical history that ties them, to us, as relatives of blood.
Unfortunately too much, too much horror of bloodshed has rent us apart, and there are those of course, who see the light, and who work for peace, but hatred seems all consuming and seems to obliterate the efforts of others.
Is this an insoluble problem? Are we tilting at windmills. Does G_d, a Presence for sure in this area, have a PLAN?
I want to believe this. I really do. Because it's getting to be just too much more of the same. The message is, hold on. And hold on we must. All of this. But the story needs something fresh, something of hope, something blowing in the wind, that finally does, ARRIVE.

(54)
Anonymous,
May 23, 2011 12:05 PM

yes you are right, but.....

i read your comments with much sadness. i agree with all that you have to say about israel and your daughter. and my heart breaks as i cannot imagine the pain of watching your child harm herself in this way. i too like to get my way so i read your comments with great interest and i applaud your self awareness. your daughter is in a power struggle with you--this is her way of defying your control; this is the only thing in her life that she feels that she can control, even if it means her demise. how to solve this problem??? i have absolutely no idea. i hope and pray that you both get all the help that is available as perhaps there are suggestions of how she can raise her self esteem and not try and punish those around her. are there reformed anorexics who offer suggestions???

(53)
Ann Thomas,
May 23, 2011 11:55 AM

Obama is wrong. I love you Israel.

(52)
Raquel de Almeida,
May 23, 2011 11:05 AM

Thank you

Your article is clear headed and it is a breath of fresh air. Here in the UK where the pro-Palestinian media has turned public opinion against Israel, I feel now empowered to quote some of your analogies.

(51)
Anonymous,
May 23, 2011 10:24 AM

I stand with Israel

Although I live in the USA and Mr. Obama is the POTUS, I didn't vote for him and he does not speak for me! I stand with Israel all the way! I pray that Mr. Netanyahu will continue to stay strong.

Debbie,
May 25, 2011 3:29 AM

Well said!

Ditto, ditto, ditto!

(50)
sue mccartney,
May 23, 2011 7:45 AM

Beautifully, eloquently expressed and unfortunately all too true

(49)
Anonymous,
May 23, 2011 5:55 AM

There is a third option.

There is no only two sides to a situation, have you consider the third option? America or yourself may not be all time militarily powerful to do what you are doing today, then what happens then? I think the solution is for all sides to be flexible and compromising, after all we are here temporarily and we are going back to GOD, that is if the Jews believe in GOD.

(48)
maish,
May 23, 2011 5:54 AM

mensch

The suffering and your response, is of lamed vov soul.
Your ability to express and cope with your pain marks you as a unique man .I appreciate your sharing ,and hope that youand yours someday,somehow will find peace.

(47)
Selma Soss,
May 23, 2011 4:42 AM

We don't have to prove we are right. We are right.
The Jews won every battle against all odds. That is
enough. At this crucial time, America and the world
needs Israel. Let them stay strong.

(46)
Yehuda,
May 23, 2011 4:35 AM

Great courage

I compliment you for your story. Fist, I wish your daughter a prompt refouah shelama, may Hashem makes her realize her condition. Second, your analogy hits it right on the head. Thank you.

(45)
Sandy F,
May 23, 2011 2:17 AM

Evangelical Christians stand with Israel

As an evangelical Christian and historian of biblical history, I cannot and will not accept the proposition that Israel must return any of its land to achieve peace. Esau sold his birthright for food, I pray that Israel does not sell hers for peace. The evangelical community stands with Israel as the Covenant People and we pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

(44)
Anonymous,
May 23, 2011 12:43 AM

Can no longer support Obama

I have always listened ti Aish and theNJ DC in regard to Obamas commitment to Israel I feel betrayed by This administrations position. When we give back Texas I will consider the 1967 borders in Israel

(43)
Rosabel,
May 23, 2011 12:20 AM

Israel

Israel is God's promise to the Jews. Pray God that there will always be an Israel. Keep the faith; keep the strength; keep the strong arm. No other coutnry/nation should tell another they don't have the right to exist or should give themselves away. Don't give up the fight!

(42)
Shraga Dachner,
May 22, 2011 11:36 PM

Right on the money, Israel must be strong.

Very well written, it expresses my feeling and thoughts completely.

(41)
Gitty Markowitz,
May 22, 2011 10:55 PM

Perfect Analogy

What a perfect analogy! I am truly sorry for your personal pain, and pray that your daughter becomes healthy and happy again and that you have much nachas from her in the future. Thank you for this perfect analogy to Israel's current crisis.

(40)
JULIUS ROMANOFF,
May 22, 2011 9:55 PM

Events on Israel's Indepencence Day

This weekend we saw Prime Minister of Israel and President of the United States on Television presenting different views regarding establishing Peace between Israel and the Palestinians. The Israeli response was that this was no way for President Obama to treat an Ally. Prime Minister, Netanyahu, response was described as lecturing Obama on the history of Israel.
Sunday President Obama spoke to AIPAC, Lobbyists for Israel, to establish his strong support for Israel’s security, and his statement that the borders for Israel will be the 1967 Armistice line, with mutually negotiated land swaps that will enable Israel to defend its security. President Obama stated this was not new, but the position held by prior Presidents. PM Netanyahu will speak to AIPAC on Monday and Congress on Tuesday. Do you see how odd it is for these events to occur when Israel Independence Day is joyously celebrated by Israel supporters, and it is called “nakba” by the Palestinians, the day of Catastrophe and celebrated by rioting?
Peace has different meanings for Israel and the Palestinians. The Palestinians see the pre 1967 borders will return East Jerusalem, the West Bank, Golan Heights and Gaza to their control. Israel insists the established cities and religious sites in the West Bank (Judea and Samaria) and undivided Jerusalem will be within its borders.
Peace needs two partners agreeing to the terms of a peace treaty. Since 1948 there was never an acceptance by the PLO or Palestinians of the Jewish State of Israel. Fatah has been termed a Moderate group and Hamas the radical Terrorists. Now they have announced they will unite into one group. Since Obama has said that Terrorists must renounce violence and accept the State of Israel, with whom can Israel have as a peace partner? Leaders state that they intend to re-establish the Grand Caliphate, when Muslims ruled from Spain to China. The goal is to regain the glory of the past. Who should Obama talk to about peace?

(39)
Frank Adam,
May 22, 2011 9:15 PM

Don't explain - challenge!

This Sunday morning 22 May, on BBC Radio 4 Andrew Marr interviewed President Obama and as regards Palestine and Israel Obama claimed he has told the PA & Hamas they must talk to Israel and give it a sense of security if they want her to talk and give anything. He also said that the frontier is to be based on the 49-67 line with swaps and behaving as though he said the frontier must be the Green Line exactly plays into Arab hands.
More important he pressured Bibi N into the Bar Ilan speech so we should be asking Obama when is he going to pressure the PA and Hamas to make a parallel Arabic "Bar Ilan" speech that peace depends on a sovereign Jewish Israel at peace alongside an Arab Palestine? The Israeli government ministers and supporters should also challenge all Arab spokespeople and the President as to whether the arab parties will be satisfied with an Arab state in the Green line? What assurances did Abbas and Hananieh give Obama that if they get a Green Line Palestine they will NOT still keep up the war as in 49 - 67 in the name of the return of the families of the refugeees of 1948?

(38)
monica,
May 22, 2011 8:35 PM

an article well worth reading!

Please read this article and see if you feel it is as worthwhile as I found it.

(37)
Reena,
May 22, 2011 8:02 PM

World Peace, Obama, and so-called Allies?

World peace is unattainable. There is no peace for the nation of Israel or the state of Israel. Our enemies are too many and wear disguises of all kinds. Our friends are too few and outnumbered. I am 83 years old and cannot recall peace for our people at any time in those years. My fellow Jews who feel safe and secure in the U.S. or anywhere else are dreamers. Only The God of our people can save us. I pray He is paying attention.

(36)
nancy,
May 22, 2011 7:06 PM

Bad decision

We should have known that Obama was not for Israel, but when it came time to vote, everyone in the US was disgusted with George Bush. So, we thought that the Demcrats would improve things along with our image.
I guess hindsight is always 20/20.

(35)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 6:31 PM

The Jewish vote

I hope every Jew who voted for Obama now see the light and will not vote for him again!

(34)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 6:03 PM

The evil underdog

People will often form opinions without seeking knowledge on an issue. The road to peace between Palestine and Israel, is the great issue, where this is so often the case. People make the shortcut and side with the underdog. What they do not know, is that if Palestine possessed greater military strength than Israel, Israel simply wouldn't exist.
Obama's suggestion is only a stab in the dark at peace. In reality the chances of border adjustments being pivotal moment in the peace process are virtually non existent. Such a move would only strengthen Arab aggression.
The worst thing about Obama's comments is the damage it does to Israel's image in the world. He did not inform the undereducated public of the realities, but sent an impression to the people that Israel is the antagonist, for it is the one that has to make concessions.
Only when a third party of enough prominence, proclaims the truth of the situation, will people finally begin to turn away from the evil underdog.

(33)
Elana,
May 22, 2011 5:32 PM

Sickened to my stomach

Ugh! How in the world was I stupid enough to vote for this miserable piece of trash called Obama. I even used to get both the names obama and osama mixed up and now I know why!! He is so sly; unbelievable. He hid his antisemitism under his smoothly talking exterior. Because no where else is anyone ever asked to give up land they won fairly thru a war; one they did not even start! Let US give back all of the land to the Native American Indians first! They started the war here first!! Disgusting pig that he is. So names do mean something after all. His first name is Hussain!!!

(32)
Harry Kuperschmidt,
May 22, 2011 5:29 PM

Voting for Obama again

I think trying to prove to Obama that he is wrong will be much easier than trying to convince those Jews who voted for Obama in 2008 not to vote for him again.
There are many balabatem among us who are so stiff necked they will march into gas chambers again bleating, "Who knew?"

(31)
Melanie Vliet,
May 22, 2011 5:07 PM

Fascinating

What a creative and interesting analogy you draw! As I pray for the peace of Jerusalem, I shall also pray for the peace and safety of your daughter and you, who love her so much and want only for her to be healthy and happy. May Israel and your precious young lady experience G-d's healing and His peace, which passes all understanding.

(30)
Frank Morris,
May 22, 2011 5:01 PM

The '67 Borders

I found value in reading your article and want to thank you. As well I wish to point out that the concept of "'67 Borders" is inaccurate, as the Arabs insisted that there be no borders and that the 1949 cease-fire lines NOT be construed as a border. The Arabs also invalidated those cease-fire lines by their multiple crossings to commit violence against Jews, and now have lost any moral or ethical standing with which to insist that Israel honor those lines. I agree with the position that the more times we repeat the mantra of the so-called '67 Borders we harm our own interests and further misinform a world already largely ignorant on the subject of the Arab-Israeli conflict. We should be asking those who believe that "all" the Arabs want is Judea and Samaria (our ancient homeland) and then the region - some even say the entire planet - would have peace, the questions "Why then when the Arabs HAD that territory did they preach and commit violence against Israel?" and "Why then did the Arabs rally around the public announcements that they would finish Hitler's work?" It may be convenient and comforting to believe that the Arab-Israeli conflict is "just" a territorial one and that it can be solved that way. However, if we want to look towards an eventual true peace, we must accept the fact that for many "believers" it is a religious war, a holy war, that far too many Muslims cannot accept a Jewish People living Free and Independent on our ancient homeland, and that they are obsessed with reversing the shame and humiliation of "believers" having lost to Jews in battle.

(29)
Sharon Katz,
May 22, 2011 4:34 PM

Good article but doesn't go far enough

People need to know exactly WHY Israel's borders are indefensible under the '67 map and how things have changed since then. It is not enough to state that Israel is creating suicide if this happens. Also, we need to know (and this is much harder), how we can create fair boundaries so a 2-state solution can occur, as everyone knows this is necessary. I have a feeling (and people with dual Isreali U.S. citizenship tell me this) that there will be a version of '67 borders in the final analysis - but with the proper securies built in, too. The program is that Obama announced this publcly before the two groups sit down at the table so it weakens Israel's position. However, I have read Obama wants to push negotiations to take place, resulting in a solution BEFORE the UN recognizes Palestine in Sept. as that will also weaken Israel's position!

(28)
Marilyn G. Selber,
May 22, 2011 4:19 PM

I agree--suicide is not an option

Great article. I hope and pray that the writer's daughter will soon be restored to good health.
President Obama's reference to the lands which Israel acquired in 1967--in a war of SELF DEFENSE--as "occupied territories" may gladden the hearts of Israel's enemies, but words cannot change the facts.
The lands acquired in 1967 are more legitimately a part of the State of Israel than the lower 48 states are a part of the US, to the extent that the land was taken from the Native Americans and others in a WAR OF AGGRESSION.
Let's be realistic. Those who use the term "occupied territories" are really referring to all of Israel. The lands acquired in 1967 are only the first step.

dad,
May 22, 2011 10:21 PM

of course

the arabs want to forget 5 wars since june 05 1967 i.e. 44 years as they never existed and our deads didn't dead ! they missed the history's train, now they must run after .

(27)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 4:15 PM

I WAS TOTALLY FOR OBAMA UNTIL HIS SPEECH
ABOUT GIVING ISRAEL THE BORDERS OF 1967. I
AM STARTING TO BELIEVE THAT OBAMA IS FOR THE
MUSLIMS! NO JEW SHOULD EVER VOTE FOR HIM!

Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 4:45 PM

Obama needs to let Israel govern their country

If anyone had any doubt re Obama's allegiance his speech should clear it up. Israel should not be divided according to the Bible & they shouldn't give in to terrorists. Hamas is a terrorist Islamic group who cries for a Palestine state. Instead of communicating for peace they kill innocent civilans. They need to be treated like the radicals that they are. Noone should vote for Obama his policies & ideaology is against our founding fathers & everything America stands for

Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 8:29 PM

You have been blind for 3 years. While you finally open your eyes to see the Obama's reality, next election comes and 75-80% of Jews will still vote for Obama, while EVERY republican candidate next day after Obama's speech denounced it.

(26)
DINA SIMHONY,
May 22, 2011 3:58 PM

HOW RIGHT YOU ARE. LET US PRAY THAT ISRAEL WILL BE UNDERSTOOD BY THE REST OF THE WORLD AND REACH, MAYBEIN OUR TIME, A DREAM PEACE. KEEP THE HATIKVAH,THE HOPE GOING.
THANKS FOR YOUR ANALYSIS

(25)
Meira,
May 22, 2011 3:39 PM

We must change

We as a people, must choose between G-d and the U.N. If you believe the U.N. "gave" Israel the land, then, logically, the U.N. or other nations can take it away in the name of "peace'. If you believe that the land is our inheritance from G-d, then only G-d can (lo aleinu) take it away. For those who have not already figured this out, choose....and please choose wisely.

(24)
Nancy Appel,
May 22, 2011 3:37 PM

World Peace is an Illusion

World peace will come to us when we make peace with our own families under our own roof. Think and ponder over it. Once we learn to accept our own family members just the way they are right now, we attain peace. We stop trying to change each other to the way we want them to be. Love them just as they are, with all their flaws and differences. Embrace them and then next year love your neighbors the same way. Thus peace will be granted to all...........Pretty simple huh....!!!

sally,
May 22, 2011 4:25 PM

you are sooo right!

thank you for this insight. i can't believe that something so simple and basic was never written before. (or at least, i never read it...)

Cynthia,
May 23, 2011 5:16 AM

World Peace

Nancy, you say that World Peace will come to us when we make peace with our own families, Well, I'm sitting here thinking, and pondering, as you have suggessted, but I'm not feeling all "fuzzy and warm" over the thought of trying to make peace with terrorists, It's illogical to think that that all we have to do is to love them just as they are, and everything will be just perfect. Peace is'nt any part of our enemies ideology, they strap the explosives on their own children, and send them out on suicide missions, only to be proud that their children are martyrs, and will be rewarded by Allah in paradise. This idea of yours might go over well in Disney Land. We are so far past any chance of peace, to think otherwise is delusional at best. Do you think that the families of all of our soldiers that have been killed or maimed for life, fighting against our enemies in the Middle East would agree with your simplistic view?

(23)
Stanley Tee,
May 22, 2011 3:34 PM

A difference

Dear Author: I feel enormous sorrow for the pain you, your family - and especially your daughter - are experiencing. However, I'm not sure about your analogy. Forgive me if this sounds harsh, but your daughter's illness causes her to damage herself (and the rest of the family collaterally). In contrast, the illness that stalks the world when it comes to Jews and Israel doesn't cause the world to damage itself. It causes the world to damage us. And I think that the only cure is for us to stop trying to prove to the world that we're the good guys. It's time for us to tell the world loud and clear that we are here by divine, historical and international legal right. If you cross our borders illegally with malice in mind - even if you are unarmed - we reserve the right to use tear gas, water cannon, smoke, rubber bullets and live ammunition. Whatever it takes. If you attack us, we will defend ourselves with every means at our disposal. If you fire at us from among your own civilian population, we will do all we can to prevent hurting your civilians, but we will no longer do so if it increases the risk to our soldiers. If you hold Jewish blood to be cheap, we do not and we will prove it to you by protecting our people, our homes and our homeland. We are prepared to compromise and we have demonstrated it through the years. But there are red lines we cannot cross and we will not cross them. And you need to know that no matter how much you push, how much you denigrate us, how much you deligitimize us, we will stand firm. We're here, we're a reality. It's about time the world got used to it. Never again. Never again.

Sally,
May 22, 2011 9:46 PM

A Difference

Just wanted to let you know how much I enjoyed your remarks. Your thoughts hit the nail right on the head. Like you, I agree....never again

(22)
Sarah Dinah,
May 22, 2011 3:33 PM

An excellent article!

I have already sent a copy of this article to two friends of mine, non-Jewish friends who just don't "understand" why Israel won't give back certain lands. I don't know that they will be able to read with an open mind this article, but at least it is written in a nonconfrontation and yet direct style, laying out the reasons that Israel cannot simply do what the rest of the world wants Israel to do. The consequences would be too terrible to bear.

(21)
JanetLB,
May 22, 2011 3:14 PM

Amazing Article

This is an amazing article, both in regard to your daughter and also in regard to Israel. I gained some important insights. Thank you and I pray for your daughter and for Israel.

(20)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 3:11 PM

obama

wishing your daughter a refuah shliama,you give obama and blair far more credit than they deserve,every move they make they know full well will be dtrimental to israel and in fact is their desire,regardless of ones opinion isael has given many times only to get NOTHING in retun,after years of so called negotiations 20 arab countries still want ISRAEL destroyed,lets remember all land that israel got was thru war they DID NOT start,dealing with them as well as obama is a futile wasted effort

(19)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 2:49 PM

Thank you, my prayers are for you and Israel > Good will always win, but unfortunately and a cost......

(18)
Elaine Taylor,
May 22, 2011 2:39 PM

I agree

I like many Americans see O bama has a power seeking person. I don't understand any of the thinking of these leaders. How would they react if other countries where doing this to them? Where do they get the right in the first place?
This Land was given to the Jews by God, the land is everything.

(17)
avram,
May 22, 2011 2:19 PM

my conditions for peace

Conditions for Peace
When Hamas and Fatah and most Arabs:
• reject hate and war in any of its forms and recognize that Israel will continue to exist, and,
• admit that they are losers in the many wars and intifadahs they have engaged in, and,
• negotiate that many, if not most refugees and their descendents, after more than 70 years, must be accepted as citizens by their current host countries, and,
• recognize that Jerusalem will remain united, and losing it as their capital is the cost of fighting and losing wars.
Then, and only then, is there a prospect for peace.

(16)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 1:55 PM

Torah, The Only True & Complete Answer

The author is missing the point that the one and only partner for a true and lasting peace is G-d & Torah. True Jews/Hebrews need to come together to live Torah, in Torah, by Torah in Eretz Yisrael. Until this time no real peace can ever exist, as this will be the fulfillment of "The Nation of Israel being a light unto the nations". beshrat haShem this will soon be the We of The Nation if Israel

(15)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 1:52 PM

so moving and right on point

I was touched by your article and its bold truth. my only wish is for the President and his advisors to read articles such as these and understand the truth of the matter.

(14)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 1:48 PM

consequences ; to every action comes a reaction, ultimately

As a Christian, who loves Israel and has been in the Holy land 5 times, I love to remember the Psalms, and in this case, the scripture, "He Who Keeps Israel neither slumbers nor sleeps." I'm from Texas; we have a slogan:Don't Mess with Texas!" Likewise, G-d has a slogan, "Don't Mess with Israel" and the land promised to Abraham.

Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 6:33 PM

Amen!

Amen!

(13)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 1:45 PM

I fervently wish for your daughter's recovery

Ask Obama why he doesn't give Arizona to the Mexican drug cartels? They could then set up their own country - Drugistan- and all the violence would stop. Why does American Jewry still love him?

(12)
Esther,
May 22, 2011 1:31 PM

The President does not speak for all Americans

Just because the President feels or believe as he stated, most Americans feel the opposite. I do not want to see you go back to the lines/borders of the Six day War. You need that territory. I do wish to see you live peacefully with the Palestinians on your border - that seek to live peacefully with you.

(11)
Kate Coley,
May 22, 2011 1:30 PM

Peace Treaty with Palestine?

First, let me say I am truly sorry for your daughters illness. I pray she will recognize it as an illness soon. Now, about this peace agreement, the L-rd Himself said the land of Israel is NOT to be given away or divided up. What do these people not understand? Why do they want to set Israel up for attack? I pray for your country as I do for mine and I applaud your PM for standing his ground. Please keep in mind tho, G-d has a plan and is always with you.

(10)
Marc Mansour,
May 22, 2011 1:02 PM

Penny smart & Dollar foolish

To quote Kohelet; " there is no blind as he who would not see". There is two issues in the West; Not the the Jews killed Christ, but they feel that they are the true descendents to the old Jewish faith. By their definition, the Jews of today are interfering with the Christians' claim that they are the true descendents of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. This belief has manifested itself in a subliminal hate and contempt for the Jews since the destruction of the Second Temple. Somebody once said that if you scratch any German, you may find a Nazi undereath. I think that if you scratch any true Christian believer, you will find an untisemitic underneath. The creation of Israel has amplified that feeling. Instead of the Jews of the world just quietly disapearing into oblivion, they became a strong country.
The second point is purely financial. Not only the West dependence on oil, but the Arab of the Middle East being a great market, and a test ground for the West's industrial product. The boycott against Israel by the Arab World of post '48 is not dead. And if you are a multinational corporation with a new product, where else would you test it. And if it is a luxury superfluous product, where is there a better market place that Bahrain or Ryad.
Marc

(9)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 1:02 PM

a good analogy

Israel's current borders are defensible, but her pre 1967 borders were not and cannot be used as a starting point for 'swaps'.
President Obama needs to realize that no matter how much land Israel gives up, it will never be enough.
Good article!

(8)
Nick Asher,
May 22, 2011 12:44 PM

Good Post!

Very nice article, true comparison.

(7)
LEE DIMIN,
May 22, 2011 12:33 PM

Mr

Now that Fatah and Hamas have partnered, Mahnoud Abbas has demanded "pre-conditions" to any further negotiations, and Special Envoy George Mitchell has resigned, the possibilities fr peace have suffered considerably. Much of the responsibility lies with President Barack Obama, who in choosing to be all things to all people, tried to con both the Palestinians and the Israelis into meetings that would have been marked a failure from the start. Transparency was certainly not part of the message President Obama delivered. The President should have been aware that any agreement between Fatah and Hamas was fatal to further negotiations, and that Mahmoud Abbas was an integral part of the Fatah organization, which controls the West Bank. The chances of peace have only further been damaged by President Obama's stated position , the ubreparable damage being the association of Fatah and Hamas.

(6)
P.Hering,
May 22, 2011 12:18 PM

simply and honestly stated.............

I was a volunteer in Israel during the 6 day war in '67. I listened to Cairo radio beamed into Israel telling (in a number of languages) how all jews would be killed and their bodies thrown into the sea.
Nothing has changed and with hamas and hezbollah as neighbours the situation is now worse than ever - the UN in terms of votes is numerically anti Israel - Obama a dreamer who tries to please everybody - in a far from perfect world this is not possible - hopefully he will be a "one term" president - surely the jewish democrat vote now lost will aid his downfall.
Israel will survive, but to ensure this leaders with policies such as Netanyahu must remain in power - continued respect for the US who have always supported Israel is vital, but stand up to them when their views are so obviously ill founded as Obama's latest -
Treat the UN with the contempt it deserves when homeland security issues are compromised.
Basically within reason Israel must ignore world opinion which in any case is generally biased against the Jewish
State

(5)
ruth housman,
May 22, 2011 12:04 PM

The wasting illness

As a therapist I am familiar with anorexia and it is a very complex illness that does take on a compulsive nature that escalates, resulting in, as you have said, self destructive acts.
I see anorexia as very much connected with larger control issues, that do contain struggles with being "seen" at the same time that the anorexic is doing a disappearing act. In a world, a personal world that seems out of control, the control of food, of intake, seems like a personal triumph, even when it becomes a struggle against the inner urge called, 'hunger".
Yes, the struggle over this little piece of land in the Middle East is a Control Issue, of major proportions, and everyone seems to have a claim to the land, which has taken on, perhaps a disproportionate amount of focused energy over time. So many battles fought, such angst, anguish and bloodshed.
What is the real goal here? is this about land or is it, about hatred of the Jews, or is it, about fairness, or is it, about something deep, about belonging, about equality, about power struggles? I see it as all of these. Certainly a complex issue, and NO, it is not going to be solved by Obama.
This notion of peace seems to have a lot riding on it. We've seen endless years of negotiation and what happens?
It is such a waste, of precious energy that could be spent on loving each other, on recognizing each other, on working together for the same goals, and a story that maybe has a lot to do with brotherhood, because in truth, Biblically, we are branches, and the tree limbs are breaking off.

(4)
Liba,
May 22, 2011 12:01 PM

brilliant!!!!!!

brilliant comparison

(3)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 11:57 AM

interesting analogy

a sad but accurate comparison. My disappointment in President Obama (whom I supported) is huge. H is stance defies all logic. I wish your daughter well.

(2)
Anonymous,
May 22, 2011 11:53 AM

This is SO TRUE!

Well written and so true -
Unfortunately, we need to get more people to understand this

(1)
Terry,
May 22, 2011 11:47 AM

Good summary

The truth, as this very succinct article notes, is that no discussion or opinon on peace in Israel is now moderated by truth or objectivity or fact. Israel is an occupier, even though it isn't. Israel is an apartheid state, even though such a notion is laughable. Israel commits himan righte violations, even though these crimes aren't crimes and amount to self survival under constant attack. Speak of Israel's achievements and democracy, rule of law and equality under the law, and Israel is laughed at.
So I find it more comforting to trust in Hashem, rather than ignorant fools like Obama and eu 'leaders'. Hashem will look after the Jews, adn Israel, so long and we look after Hashem. Period. So don't bother arguing with bigots.

I'm told that it's a mitzvah to become intoxicated on Purim. This puzzles me, because to my understanding, it is not considered a good thing to become intoxicated, period.

One of the characteristics of the at-risk youth is their use of drugs, including alcohol. In my experience, getting drunk doesn't reveal secrets. It makes people act stupid and irresponsible, doing things they would never do if they were sober. Also, I know a lot about the horrible health effects of abusing alcohol, because I work at a research center that focuses on addiction and substance abuse.

Also, I am an alcoholic, which means that if I drink, very bad things happen. I have not had a drink in 22 years, and I have no intention of starting now. Surely there must be instances where a person is excused from the obligation to drink. I don't see how Judaism could ever promote the idea of getting drunk. It just doesn't seem right.

The Aish Rabbi Replies:

Putting aside for a moment all the spiritual and philosophical reasons for getting drunk on Purim, this remains an issue of common sense. Of course, teenagers should be warned of the dangers of acute alcohol ingestion. Of course, nobody should drink and drive. Of course, nobody should become so drunk to the point of negligence in performing mitzvot. And of course, a recovering alcoholic should not partake of alcohol on Purim.

Indeed, the Code of Jewish Law explicitly says that if one suspects the drinking may affect him negatively, then he should NOT drink.

Getting drunk on Purim is actually one of the most difficult mitzvot to do correctly. A person should only drink if it will lead to positive spiritual results - e.g. under the loosening affect of the alcohol, greater awareness will surface of the love for God and Torah found deep in the heart. (Perhaps if we were on a higher spiritual level, we wouldn't need to get drunk!)

Yet the Talmud still speaks of an obligation on Purim of "not knowing the difference between Blessed is Mordechai and Cursed is Haman." How then should a person who doesn't drink get the point of “not knowing”? Simple - just go to sleep! (Rama - OC 695:2)

All this applies to individuals. But the question remains - does drinking on Purim adversely affect the collective social health of the Jewish community?

The aversion to alcoholism is engrained into Jewish consciousness from a number of Biblical and Talmudic sources. There are the rebuking words of prophets - Isaiah 28:1, Hosea 3:1 with Rashi, and Amos 6:6, and the Zohar says that "The wicked stray after wine" (Midrash Ne'alam Parshat Vayera).

It is well known that the rate of alcoholism among Jews has historically been very low. Numerous medical, psychological and sociological studies have confirmed this. The connection between Judaism and sobriety is so evident, that the following conversation is reported by Lawrence Kelemen in "Permission to Receive":

When Dr. Mark Keller, editor of the Quarterly Journal of Studies on Alcohol, commented that "practically all Jews do drink, and yet all the world knows that Jews hardly ever become alcoholics," his colleague, Dr. Howard Haggard, director of Yale's Laboratory of Applied Physiology, jokingly proposed converting alcoholics to the Jewish religion in order to immerse them in a culture with healthy attitudes toward drinking!

Perhaps we could suggest that it is precisely because of the use of alcohol in traditional ceremonies (Kiddush, Bris, Purim, etc.), that Jews experience such low rates of alcoholism. This ceremonial usage may actually act like an inoculation - i.e. injecting a safe amount that keeps the disease away.

Of course, as we said earlier, all this needs to be monitored with good common sense. Yet in my personal experience - having been in the company of Torah scholars who were totally drunk on Purim - they acted with extreme gentleness and joy. Amid the Jewish songs and beautiful words of Torah, every year the event is, for me, very special.

Adar 12 marks the dedication of Herod's renovations on the second Holy Temple in Jerusalem in 11 BCE. Herod was king of Judea in the first century BCE who constructed grand projects like the fortresses at Masada and Herodium, the city of Caesarea, and fortifications around the old city of Jerusalem. The most ambitious of Herod's projects was the re-building of the Temple, which was in disrepair after standing over 300 years. Herod's renovations included a huge man-made platform that remains today the largest man-made platform in the world. It took 10,000 men 10 years just to build the retaining walls around the Temple Mount; the Western Wall that we know today is part of that retaining wall. The Temple itself was a phenomenal site, covered in gold and marble. As the Talmud says, "He who has not seen Herod's building, has never in his life seen a truly grand building."

Some people gauge the value of themselves by what they own. But in reality, the entire concept of ownership of possessions is based on an illusion. When you obtain a material object, it does not become part of you. Ownership is merely your right to use specific objects whenever you wish.

How unfortunate is the person who has an ambition to cleave to something impossible to cleave to! Such a person will not obtain what he desires and will experience suffering.

Fortunate is the person whose ambition it is to acquire personal growth that is independent of external factors. Such a person will lead a happy and rewarding life.

With exercising patience you could have saved yourself 400 zuzim (Berachos 20a).

This Talmudic proverb arose from a case where someone was fined 400 zuzim because he acted in undue haste and insulted some one.

I was once pulling into a parking lot. Since I was a bit late for an important appointment, I was terribly annoyed that the lead car in the procession was creeping at a snail's pace. The driver immediately in front of me was showing his impatience by sounding his horn. In my aggravation, I wanted to join him, but I saw no real purpose in adding to the cacophony.

When the lead driver finally pulled into a parking space, I saw a wheelchair symbol on his rear license plate. He was handicapped and was obviously in need of the nearest parking space. I felt bad that I had harbored such hostile feelings about him, but was gratified that I had not sounded my horn, because then I would really have felt guilty for my lack of consideration.

This incident has helped me to delay my reactions to other frustrating situations until I have more time to evaluate all the circumstances. My motives do not stem from lofty principles, but from my desire to avoid having to feel guilt and remorse for having been foolish or inconsiderate.

Today I shall...

try to withhold impulsive reaction, bearing in mind that a hasty act performed without full knowledge of all the circumstances may cause me much distress.

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